Bursa Triggerfish Saltwater Fish

Bursa Triggerfish (Rhinecanthus Verrucosus)

$35.48

The Bursa Triggerfish (Rhinecanthus verrucosus), also known as the Blackbelly or Blackpatch Triggerfish, is a hardy and captivating saltwater species characterized by striking line patterns and a prominent dark flank spot. Reaching an adult length of 23 to 30 cm, this active and powerful swimmer thrives in fish-only or FOWLR aquarium environments with securely placed rockwork and shelter.

As an aggressive and territorial carnivore, it requires a robust setup with a minimum volume of 473.2 L and compatible, assertive tankmates. Its diet must feature meaty foods and hard-shelled items like whole clams or mussels in the shell to naturally wear down its constantly growing teeth.

Key Features

Scientific Name	Rhinecanthus verrucosus
Primary Common Name	Bursa Triggerfish
Other Common Names	Blackbelly Triggerfish, Blackpatch Triggerfish
Origin	Indo-Pacific
Max Size	23-30 cm
Temperament	Aggressive (Highly Territorial)
Diet	Carnivore/Omnivore (Must include hard-shelled food)
Minimum Tank Size	473.2 L
Reef Compatibility	Not Reef Safe
Water Type	Saltwater

Highlights

Diet: This triggerfish is a carnivore and bottom-forager. It requires a varied diet of meaty frozen foods, including squid, krill, shrimp, and clams.
Teeth Care: It is essential to regularly provide hard-shelled, meaty foods (such as whole clams or mussels in the shell) to naturally file down its constantly growing beak and prevent overgrowth, which can cause feeding issues.
Reef Compatibility: The Rhinecanthus genus is not reef safe. The Bursa Triggerfish will use its powerful jaws to crush and consume most ornamental invertebrates (shrimp, crabs, snails) and will likely pick at and destroy corals.
Temperament: It is aggressive and highly territorial. It should be housed with other large, assertive, and robust fish that can defend themselves. Unlike some other triggers, this species exhibits little sexual dimorphism.

Compatibility

This species is aggressive and highly territorial, suited for fish-only or FOWLR systems with large, robust tankmates that can defend themselves. It is not reef safe and will eat crustaceans, snails, and pick at corals.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Bursa Triggerfish safe for reef aquariums?

No, this species is not reef safe because it will crush ornamental invertebrates like shrimp, crabs, and snails, and is likely to pick at corals.

What should the Bursa Triggerfish be fed?

It requires a varied carnivorous diet including squid, krill, shrimp, and hard-shelled foods like clams or mussels in the shell to wear down its teeth.

What is the minimum aquarium size recommended?

The minimum recommended aquarium size is 473.2 L to accommodate its size, swimming habits, and territorial nature.

What temperament does this fish have?

The Bursa Triggerfish is aggressive and highly territorial, making it best suited for fish-only systems with large, assertive tankmates.

Important Fulfillment Information

Fish and corals ship Monday through Thursday. Not all fish are sexed. If so it will specify.

Once your order ships, you will receive an email with your tracking number. Refunds are always issued for any fish not shipped.

PlantedPlus operates as a collective of trusted freshwater and saltwater importers. This policy allows us to prioritize animal welfare while maintaining reliable service for our hobbyists.

Shipping Cost Disclosure

To help keep ordering live fish online affordable, Planted Plus subsidizes a portion of shipping costs. Because these costs are incurred regardless of order completion, shipping charges are non-refundable.